photo by: Andrew Beaven

Melissa Clover was recognized with the 2025 Dedication to Education Award on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.

Melissa Clover, a fourth grade teacher at Deerfield Elementary School, was awarded the 2025 Dedication to Education Award during an all-school assembly on Monday.

The Lawrence Schools Foundation presented the award along with a $5,000 check. The assembly on Monday morning for students and staff turned into a surprise celebration for Clover, which included family, friends, peers and current and past students, according to a release from the Foundation.

“Melissa is an incredible educator that strives to make lasting connections with each and every student that comes through her classroom,” a peer of Clover’s wrote to the Lawrence Schools Foundation. “She even seeks out interactions with students that might need a little extra care.”

The Dedication to Education Award is given each year to a certified educator or para-educator who goes above and beyond to help students. The award is meant to honor someone who supports the district’s Excellence, Equity and Engagement goals and is dedicated to the success of every student, the release said. The award was established by the children of a group of anonymous donors who initiated the “Bobs Award” for outstanding Lawrence teachers in 1997; that recognition is awarded each spring.

“Throughout our lives we cross paths with people that shine a little brighter and bring joy to everyone around them. Melissa is one of those people, who has the inherent ability to make everyone around them better,” another peer wrote to the Foundation.

As the Journal-World reported, last year, Deborah Woodall, the band director at Southwest Middle School, received the award.

photo by: Andrew Beaven

Peers, friends and family attended a surprise celebration for 4th grade teacher Melissa Clover after she received the 2025 Dedication to Education Award on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.

photo by: Andrew Beaven

Melissa Clover, a 4th grade teacher at Deerfield Elementary School, received the 2025 Dedication to Education Award on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.